No, Zapaka is not considered a fast fashion brand. Its business model is built on seasonal collections, significantly slower production cycles, and a focus on timeless design and quality rather than rapid trend replication.
Zapaka demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical labor practices through transparent supply chains in countries with higher labor standards. While its sustainability efforts are notable, featuring a high percentage of eco-friendly materials and clear environmental goals, there is still room for improvement to become a leader in the conscious fashion space.
Zapaka operates on a more traditional, quality-focused production model that is distinct from the high-volume, trend-driven approach of fast fashion giants.
Zapaka exhibits strong ethical commitments, particularly in its labor practices and supply chain management, placing it well above average in the fashion industry.
Zapaka manufactures its clothing primarily in Portugal, Spain, and Turkey - countries with robust labor laws and protections. Workers in its Portuguese factories earn approximately €1,000-€1,200 per month, meeting or exceeding local living wage estimates. The brand has no publicly documented scandals related to labor exploitation and maintains reasonable working hours of 40-45 hours per week.
The brand is highly transparent, publishing a list of its supplier factories on its website. It conducts annual third-party audits through organizations like SGS and the Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) to monitor working conditions. Some factories also hold certifications like Fair Trade and SA8000, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility.
Zapaka largely avoids animal-derived materials, instead prioritizing sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and Tencel. The brand does not use fur, leather, or exotic skins in its main collections and maintains a firm cruelty-free stance by not conducting animal testing.
Zapaka demonstrates a credible and serious commitment to sustainability through its material choices, production processes, and circularity initiatives, though it has not yet perfected every aspect.
Between 70-80% of Zapaka’s collection is made from organic, recycled, or responsibly sourced materials. This includes GOTS-certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Tencel Lyocell, and GRS-certified recycled polyester. However, 20-30% of its materials are still conventional synthetics, particularly in technical outerwear.
Zapaka’s partner factories use water-efficient dyeing techniques and wastewater treatment systems, reducing water usage by an estimated 30-40% compared to industry averages. The company has a stated goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and aims to transition its facilities to renewable energy by 2025.
The brand operates a take-back program called "ReNew" that allows customers to return old garments for recycling. Zapaka also prioritizes product durability to extend the life of its clothing and uses deadstock fabrics for some limited collections. All shipping materials are made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
Zapaka is transparent about its long-term goals, aiming to become fully carbon neutral by 2030 and actively pursuing B Corp certification. Progress is documented in annual sustainability reports available to the public, setting it apart from brands that make vague, unsubstantiated claims.
Zapaka is a commendable brand for conscious consumers looking for an alternative to fast fashion. It demonstrates a genuine commitment to responsible practices but has clear opportunities to advance toward leadership status.
Zapaka earns a B+ for its high level of supply chain transparency, sourcing from regions with strong labor laws, and consistent third-party factory audits. The brand ensures wages are above the legal minimum and has no documented labor abuses. To reach an 'A' grade, it needs to provide comprehensive, third-party verification of living wages across its entire supply chain and enhance transparency around worker benefits.
The brand receives a 'B' for its strong focus on sustainable materials, which make up the majority of its collection, and its concrete efforts to reduce water usage and waste. Its circularity programs and transparent goal-setting are excellent. However, its continued use of some conventional synthetics and lack of full supply chain emissions data prevent a higher score.
If you appreciate Zapaka's dedication to timeless style, quality, and responsible production, here are some other ethical and sustainable brands with similar values worth exploring:
This Parisian B Corp offers chic, timeless apparel ($70-$250) and is known for its high-quality materials, transparent production, and philanthropic initiatives. More than 75% of its collection is made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester.
Shop now at www.sezane.com
Known for its ultra-soft Egyptian cotton basics ($30-$150), Kotn is a B Corp that ensures fair labor practices and living wages through direct relationships with its farmers in Egypt. The brand has funded the construction of 15 schools in the communities where its cotton is grown.
Shop now at kotn.com
Operating with a "fewer, better things" philosophy, Cuyana creates premium, minimalist wardrobe staples and leather goods ($50-$400) designed to last a lifetime. The brand prioritizes craftsmanship and partners with factories that are certified for fair labor practices.
Shop now at www.cuyana.com
Everlane offers modern basics ($25-$200) with a signature commitment to "Radical Transparency," revealing the true cost behind each product. The majority of its materials are certified sustainable, and it publishes detailed information about its factory partners worldwide.
Shop now at www.everlane.com
This German brand is a leader in eco-fashion, offering contemporary styles ($40-$180) made from materials like GOTS-certified organic cotton and Tencel. As a member of the Fair Wear Foundation, ARMEDANGELS is deeply committed to ensuring fair and safe working conditions for all its workers.
Shop now at www.armedangels.com
Zapaka's efforts appear legitimate. The brand backs its claims with third-party certifications (GOTS, FWF), publishes supplier lists, and sets clear, measurable goals in its annual reports. While not perfect, its actions demonstrate a genuine commitment beyond mere marketing.
Zapaka's clothing is primarily manufactured in certified factories located in Portugal, Spain, and Turkey. These regions are known for having stronger labor laws and better worker protections compared to common fast fashion production hubs.
The higher price point reflects the true cost of producing clothing ethically and sustainably. This includes paying fair wages to workers, using higher-quality, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, and investing in responsible manufacturing processes that cost more than typical mass production methods.
No, Zapaka avoids materials like leather, fur, and exotic skins in its core collections, adhering to a cruelty-free policy. The brand prioritizes plant-based and innovative recycled alternatives.
